ANTI-social behaviour fears have prompted councillors to reconsider the proposed location of a new Chinese pavillion in Stratford.
Liberal Democrat councillors Jenny Fradgley and Peter Moorse have put forward a motion calling on council chiefs to consider alternative sites to Firs Garden – a small park next to the police station on Rother Street.
The ‘peony pavillion’ has been gifted by its twin town in Fuzhou Municipality in China, where a replica of Shakespeare’s Birthplace is being constructed along with his final home at New Place, Holy Trinity Church and imitations of some of the town’s historic streets.
Stratford District Council hoped to place the six-sided pavillion – a typical symbol for Chinese playwright Tang Xianzu’s works and a classical symbol of Chinese culture in the park they say is ‘undeveloped’.
The San Weng cultural centre – meaning the three masters – will pay tribute to the two playwrights, as well as Spanish author Miguel de Cervantes, best known for writing Don Quixote.
But some 35 people have opposed the application with many saying it would bring unwanted tourists to the area, has nothing in common with the gardens and could escalate issues of anti-social behaviour and rough sleeping.
One objector said it would destroy the peaceful concept of the park and it was ‘doomed to become neglected’ and an ‘eyesore’.
The motion will be put forward to the cabinet to examine alternative locations which would ‘allow easier access’ for visitors.
